Alberto Malesani insists today’s defeat was Genoa’s best performance of the season and “someone’s playing dirty tricks” to take his job.

There were reports before this match that Malesani faced the axe to make way for Gigi De Canio if he failed to get a result.

The 2-0 defeat to bottom of the table Cesena is therefore a heavy blow.

“We dominated the game, but if you don’t put the ball in the back of the net, you won’t make that count,” said the Coach.

“The strangest thing is this was our best performance of the season when it comes to the full 90 minutes. We’ve got to give more push to the attack and defend only with three men.

“Cesena had a champion like Adrian Mutu to resolve the match and their goalkeeper did the rest.”

As for his future, Malesani believes the knives are out in Genoa.

“I carry on along my path and I think we are doing great work. After all, we’ve got 15 points and a game in hand. I think what’s happening is shocking, but I accept it. I lead a fortunate life and won’t act the victim.

“However, someone’s playing dirty tricks and probably someone wants to get back to work. I love football and don’t want to see it manhandled.”